August 2018 Quilter’s Planner Block of the Month Tips and Tricks

We’re back for the 8th month of the 2018 Quilter’s Planner Block of the Month Sampler Sew Along! I am so excited for all of the progress that we’ve made together.

This month, we are working on Block 8 (page 35-36) in the Quilter’s Planner Magazine). Block 8 uses half square triangles (HST) for a fun square in a diamond design.

For our Block 8, we used feature fabrics by Alison Glass for Andover.

If this block looks vaguely familiar, it does resemble Block 1, from January. However, this block is made from Half Square Triangles.

QP Insider Tip #1:

I think the key to this block is paying careful attention to the layout. It’s quite easy to accidentally turn the triangles around when you are assembling the block. I find it easiest to sew the 4 blocks from each row in pairs. So, you sew the two blocks from the left side together then two blocks from the right side together. Lay the pairs back out to make sure that they are oriented properly before sewing the pairs together. Repeat the process for the following rows. From there, sew row 1 to row 2 and row 3 to row 4, again making sure that all of the pieces are in their proper locations before joining those last 2 pieces.

QP Insider Tip #2:

There are many ways and many tools that can be helpful for making HSTs. For some people, the solution is the use of a specialty ruler for trimming (such as a Bloc Loc, Tucker Trimmer, Quilt in a Day HST Square Up Ruler just to name a few), but these aren’t your only options. Foundation paper piecing (FPP) using templates (such as Perfect HSTs from Lee Heinrich and Triangles on a Roll, just to name a few). Part of the battle is figuring out what works for you.

QP Insider Tip #3:

If you’ve chosen to follow the Modern Bliss layout, there are 2 versions of Block 5 in the quilt pictured on the cover of the magazine (the rightmost blocks in rows 3 and 6). Also, don’t forget that the Modern Bliss layout uses blocks set on point (rotated 45 degrees), so that may be something to consider when selecting fabrics

Between the 1st and the 7th day of each month, you’ll find the pattern for that month’s block and select your fabrics.

Between the 8th and the 14th, you’ll get your fabrics prepped and cut.

Between the 15th and the end of the month, sew up your block and post it to Instagram (please tag @thequiltersplanner and use the #QP2018sewalong hashtag) and/or to the Facebook Group (using the same #QP2018sewalong hashtag). We will have prizes for both, but you are only eligible to win the monthly prize once.

Rules for for Entering your Sewn Blocks to Win Prizes Online:

When you post a photo of your block on Instagram or in our Facebook group by each deadline set for the month (usually the first of the next month), you’ll be entered into a drawing for some great prizes from our sponsors: Andover Fabrics, Aurifil, OLFA, and the Quilter’s Planner.

Each month’s entry must be posted by 12:01 am Central Time to be eligible.

You MUST tag @thequiltersplanner on IG or post your block in our Facebook group with your entry and use the hashtag #QP2018sewalong (please be sure to use the hashtag on Instagram AND Facebook) so we can track your entry.

If you win one month’s prize, you will be eligible to win again at 6 months and 12 months, if you complete and enter each month’s block on time.

Some prizes may not be available for participants outside the US due to shipping costs. Winners will be contacted via social media and asked to provide an email address and shipping address.

If a prize alternative is required, it will be sent via email.

If you do not receive your prize within one month, please contact us at hello@quiltersplanner.com so we can contact prize sponsors and help coordinate a new shipment.

These contests are not affiliated with Instagram or Facebook in any way.

General Tips for Sewing the 2018 QP Block of the Month Pattern:

Fabric requirements are listed for the whole project on p. 26 of the pattern magazine. They are also listed per block, if you do not plan to sew the entire sampler.

Along the way, we will provide you with tips and tricks on Instagram, in our Facebook group, and via email for success and to answer your questions as they arise.

If you’re worried about missing Sew Along dates, we’ve got you covered – reminders will be posted on Instagram, on our Facebook page, and in our Facebook group as we move through the different phases of the Sew Along.

While these aren’t required, 3½” and 4½” square rulers may speed up the process of trimming and squaring your blocks. If not, there’s no need to worry. Many quilting rulers have 45 degree lines printed on them. These handy lines are great for helping you to align your seams.

Happy Sewing! Please contact us on Instagram or in our Facebook group and tag us if you get stuck or have questions!